What is the Difference Between Fractional Distillation and Distillation?

The main difference between fractional distillation and distillation (also known as simple distillation) lies in the boiling points of the components in the liquid mixture and the number of vaporization-condensation steps involved in the process.

Distillation (Simple Distillation):

1. Used to separate liquids with a difference in boiling points greater than 25°C.
2. The experimental setup requires a simple apparatus with two flasks and a condenser.
3. Every vaporization-condensation step is recognized as simple distillation.
4. Example: Separating water from seawater.

Fractional Distillation:

1. Used to separate liquids with a difference in boiling points less than 25°C.
2. The experimental setup requires a complex apparatus with a fractioning column.
3. Multiple simple distillation processes are carried out with small losses in one apparatus.
4. Example: Separating a mixture of ethanol and water.

In fractional distillation, the mixture is boiled in a fractionating column, a long tube that allows the liquid to vaporize and condense several times as it hits cooler air. This process is more efficient when the boiling points of the two liquids in the mixture are close, generally a difference of less than 40°C (104°F). Fractionating columns are often packed with metal wire or other materials to increase the surface area for vaporization and condensation.

Comparative Table: Fractional Distillation vs Distillation

Here is a table comparing the differences between simple distillation and fractional distillation:

In summary, simple distillation is a process used to separate components with distinct boiling points using a simple apparatus, while fractional distillation is a more advanced and complex process that uses a fractionating column to separate components with similar boiling points more effectively.